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Freelance Laser Optics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NSS

Fiber Laser Scientist II

Herndon, VA

Fibertek's engineering teams simultaneously tackle laser optical performance beyond state-of-the-art while engineering systems for performance on challenging platforms with limited size, mass, and ...

NSS

Fiber Laser Scientist II

Herndon, VA

Fibertek's engineering teams simultaneously tackle laser optical performance beyond state-of-the-art while engineering systems for performance on challenging platforms with limited size, mass, and ...

nLIGHT

Laser Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$103K - $135K/yr

Apply detailed understanding of laser optic to development of commericial, military and aerospace ... Support Marketing and Sales personnel, Applications engineers, customers, and end users, and ...

IPG Photonics

Laser Scientist

Marlborough, MA · On-site

PhD in Science or Engineering, preferably with Major in Physics * 10+ years' experience with lasers, optics, imaging systems * Working knowledge of laser physics, condensed matter physics and optical ...

NSS

Laser Engineer

Herndon, VA

Laser Engineer Fibertek, Inc. is a leading developer of laser and electro-optic systems for the aerospace community, with key contributions to lasers for atmospheric sensing, laser communications ...

Attalon, Inc.

Sr. Principal Laser Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$102K - $182K/yr

S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see farther, target faster, and survive the harshest environments. From high-energy directed laser ...

NSS

Laser Engineer

Herndon, VA

Laser Engineer Fibertek, Inc. is a leading developer of laser and electro-optic systems for the aerospace community, with key contributions to lasers for atmospheric sensing, laser communications ...

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Freelance Laser Optics Engineer information

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$40.5K

$112.1K

$188K

How much do freelance laser optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance laser optics engineer in the United States is $112,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,500.00 and $161,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Does NASA hire optical engineers?

Yes, NASA hires optical engineers, including those specializing in laser optics, for projects related to space exploration, instrumentation, and scientific research. These roles often require expertise in optics design, laser systems, and relevant engineering certifications. Optical engineers at NASA work in highly technical environments and may need security clearances and advanced degrees.

What does a Freelance Laser Optics Engineer do?

A Freelance Laser Optics Engineer designs, develops, and tests optical systems that use lasers for various applications, such as telecommunications, medical devices, manufacturing, and scientific research. Working independently or on a contract basis, they may consult with clients, create custom optical solutions, and troubleshoot complex laser systems. Their responsibilities often include simulation, prototyping, and ensuring that designs meet performance and safety standards.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, petroleum, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, particularly in large corporations or high-demand industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Laser Optics Engineer, and why are they important?

To succeed as a Freelance Laser Optics Engineer, you need a strong background in optical engineering, physics, and laser systems, typically supported by a relevant degree and hands-on project experience. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like Zemax or LightTools, and industry standards for laser safety and alignment is essential. Excellent problem-solving, self-management, and client communication skills help you manage projects independently and build lasting professional relationships. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering precise technical solutions, ensuring safety, and maintaining a competitive edge in a specialized, client-driven field.

What is the difference between Freelance Laser Optics Engineer vs Freelance Optical Engineer?

AspectFreelance Laser Optics EngineerFreelance Optical Engineer
CredentialsSpecialized in laser optics, often requires optics or physics backgroundBroader optics knowledge, may include imaging, fiber optics, and general optical systems
Work EnvironmentPrimarily labs, research facilities, or client sites for laser system developmentVaries from labs to manufacturing, consulting, or design projects
Industry UsageCommon in laser manufacturing, research, and defense sectors

While both roles involve optical system design and testing, Freelance Laser Optics Engineers specialize in laser-specific applications, whereas Freelance Optical Engineers have a broader scope. The choice depends on the project focus and required expertise.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance laser optics engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Freelance laser optics engineers often encounter challenges such as managing multiple client projects simultaneously, staying updated with rapidly evolving technologies, and securing consistent work. To address these, effective time management and clear communication with clients are crucial. Additionally, investing in ongoing professional development and networking within the optics community can help freelancers stay competitive and find new opportunities. Building a strong portfolio and seeking client feedback can also enhance credibility and lead to repeat business.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers, including laser optics engineers, are in high demand due to advancements in photonics, laser technology, and optical systems across industries such as telecommunications, defense, and medical devices. Skilled professionals with expertise in optical design, testing, and simulation tools like Zemax or Code V are particularly sought after, especially those with relevant certifications and experience in high-precision environments.

How much do laser engineers make in the US?

Laser optics engineers in the US typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in laser systems and optical design can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $130,000. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance and professional development opportunities.
More about Freelance Laser Optics Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Laser Optics Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Laser Optics Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Laser Optics Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Laser Optics Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Laser Optics Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Laser Optics Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Laser Optics Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Laser Optics Engineer jobs are:
Freelance Laser Optics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Laser Optics Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,096 per year, or $53.9 per hour.
Fiber Laser Scientist II

Fiber Laser Scientist II

NSS

Herndon, VA

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Fiber Laser Scientist
Herndon, VA

While working as a Fiber Laser Scientist at Fibertek, you will lead the design and development, integration, and test of advanced fiber laser systems typically with performance requirements beyond the state-of-the-art. Fibertek is a leader in the design, development, and delivery of advanced laser systems and technologies for military and aerospace applications.

Your JobWe are looking for and experienced and motivated fiber laser scientist or engineer to join a multi-disciplinary team and lead the design and demonstration of advanced laser systems. Example focus missions include space-based laser communications, lidar for tactical defense applications, earth-sensing lidar, and navigational lidars for planetary and docking missions. Fibertek's engineering teams simultaneously tackle laser optical performance beyond state-of-the-art while engineering systems for performance on challenging platforms with limited size, mass, and power and over stressing vibration, thermal, and/or radiation conditions. Delivered systems make a national impact to customers at NASA and throughout the defense community. The work-load will at times include multiple concurrent projects with a mix of short duration research programs and longer duration technology maturation programs resulting in a work culture that is team-oriented, intellectually stimulating, and consistently rewarding.
  • Lead the engineering development of unique laser designs through modeling fiber laser performance, design analysis, component specification, and hardware assembly, integration, and test
  • Coordinate and support the build, alignment, and performance characterization of fiber lasers including multi-stage amplifiers, phase & amplitude modulation implementation, spectral and coherent beam combining
  • Coordinate and perform formal acceptance and qualification testing
  • Participate in customer interactions including formal technical reviews
Required Skills and ExperienceTo exceed in this Fiber Laser Scientist role, you'll need the below expertise and experience:
  • MS or PhD in Physics or Optical Engineering w/ a minimum of 5 years of direct hands-on fiber laser experience including designing, building, characterizing laser systems
  • Knowledge of the laser theory and industry best practices associated with fiber laser systems including continuous wave lasers, pulsed, high peak power fiber, advanced fiber architectures, single-frequency injection locked lasers, low frequency noise lasers, electrical and thermal sub-systems.
  • Expertise in laser physics of fiber lasers and amplifiers, including ytterbium, erbium, and/or thulium gain materials.
  • Familiarity with relevant nonlinear processes and impacts to laser performance. Examples include Stimulated Brillouin Scattering, Four-Wave Mixing, Stimulated Raman Scattering, and Transverse Modulational Instability.
  • Foundational understanding of fiber-optic components including types of fibers, pump lasers, couplers, modulators, isolators, mode-field adapters, polarization components, and others.
  • Knowledge of tools for modeling fiber laser performance such as Matlab, RP Power Fiber or equivalent software
  • Ability to design and execute experiments validating laser system performance and correlate the results with the expected performance
  • Strong communication and documentation skills for efficient multidisciplinary communication
  • US citizenship required
Please apply today for this full-time Herndon-based Fiber Laser Scientist role and join the leader in the development of state-of-the-art laser and electro-optic solutions.
Why Fibertek, Inc?
At FIBERTEK, Inc. we pride ourselves in our innovation and customer success focused culture enabled by a creative and relaxed work environment with minimal bureaucracy. Fibertek fosters a progressive learning environment that values inspiration, promotes professional challenge and encourages personal growth. We offer a competitive and incentivized compensation package with excellent benefits.
Fibertek, Inc. is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Applicants are considered regardless of race, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age or any other protected characteristic in accordance with applicable law. If you need assistance or an accommodation for any part of the application process, please contact us by phone at 571-299-4487 or via email at hr@fibertek.com.
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About NSS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NSS RPO was founded by Jessica Nicholson and Conor Nicholson in 2009. They saw the need for a nice services company that valued their employees by putting them first. With Jessica’s organizational skills and strategy along with Conor’s network, the company employed 25 contract recruiters in less than a year and proceeded to make the Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest growing companies in America, three years in a row. Since its inception, NSS RPO has hired hundreds of recruiters in over 30 states. NSS RPO is proud to include among its clients eight of the ten largest government contractors, the world's largest job board, entertainment company and one of the nation’s largest banks. NSS RPO is your trusted provider of Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) solutions. Founded by an experienced recruiter and solely focused on RPO, NSS RPO offers a strong network of exceptional recruiters and customizable staffing solutions. Named to Washington Business Journal’s prestigious list of Top 25 Staffing Agencies seven years in a row, NSS RPO is known for its quality, agility, and expertise. If you have a recruitment staffing need at your organization, NSS RPO can customize a solution for you, no matter how big or small.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

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